Researchers at Tideschart conducted a comprehensive analysis of 528 U.S. beaches, focusing on surf zone fatalities, shark attacks, and hurricane risks, to determine the nation’s most dangerous shores. Florida dominated the list, with all ten of the most hazardous beaches located within the state.
These beaches are particularly vulnerable due to a combination of frequent shark encounters, high surf zone fatality rates, and the constant threat of hurricanes, having endured 126 hurricanes between 1851 and 2024. New Smyrna Beach topped the ranking, earning the title of America’s most dangerous beach, notably due to its high number of shark attacks and surf zone fatalities.
The analysis revealed that Laguna Beach and Daytona Beach followed closely behind, both in Florida, with significant numbers of surf zone fatalities and shark attacks respectively. The study highlighted the specific dangers of each beach, such as powerful rip currents, diverse marine life, and high tourist traffic, all contributing to the overall risk. Conversely, beaches in Hawaii, like Kalepolepo Beach and Ukumehame Beach Park, were identified as the safest, with no recorded incidents across the assessed risk factors, offering a stark contrast to the perilous conditions on Florida’s coastlines.
- New Smyrna Beach is known as the “Shark Bite Capital of the World” with 277 recorded shark attacks.
- Laguna Beach recorded the highest number of surf zone fatalities at 39.
- All 10 of the most dangerous beaches in the U.S. are located in Florida.
- Florida beaches have been impacted by 126 hurricanes between 1851 and 2024.
- Kalepolepo Beach in Hawaii is ranked as the safest beach in America, with no recorded incidents.
- Daytona Beach has 67 recorded shark attacks.
- Miramar Heights Beach had 10 surf zone fatalities, but 0 shark attacks.